HP's annual plan fixed at Rs 3000 crore

The Annual Plan for Himachal Pradesh for 2010-11 was fixed at Rs 3000 crore at a meeting here today between Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia and Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal.

During the meeting, Mr Ahluwalia complimented the State Government for its fiscal discipline and human development initiatives. Appreciating the steps taken by the State Government for creating employment opportunities, he suggested that a monitoring mechanism be set up for this area, both in the public and private sectors.

Mr Ahluwalia pointed out that the State Government should focus on improving tourism and horticulture as they have immense revenue generation protential. He also appreciated the efforts to encourage organic farming.

An official press release said the plan outlay for the State would accord top priority for the social services sector, for which 33.69 per cent of the funds would be allocated. This would include improvement of infrastructure and health facilities to bring about improvement in the quality of delivery systems.

It also covers the plan to expand the rail infrastructure by meeting the State's share of the Bhanupalli-Bilaspur railway line.

High priority will also be given to the energy sector by making a provision of Rs 354.37 crore (11.81 per cent). This includes a loan of Rs 190 crore and equity of Rs 100 crore to four Asian Development Bank (ADB)-assisted projects allotted to the Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited.

NNN